Download 17th Selection Round- Impact Tool User Guide

research program before selecting the ‘Click to set up sheet’ button on the top left of the
sheet.
There does not necessarily have to be one usage for each output. Some usages may
require several outputs (potentially including outputs from across multiple research
programs) or conversely a single output may have multiple usages.
Again, it is a wise idea to save the Impact Tool regularly, including before completing this
step and after this sheet has been set up.
The Usage sheet is now ready to be populated with figures and text.
7.2
What is a usage?
Usage refers to the uptake, application or adoption of outputs by end-users. The end-users
may include commercial users, community organisations, Government or individuals.
Important information to consider when describing a usage includes:
• the identity of the user of the output(s);
• the nature of the relationship (if any) between the user and the CRC;
• the mechanism by which the output(s) will be connected to the usage; and
• the level of effort required by the user to refine/adopt/apply the output(s).
Once the usage is determined, applicants must provide an expected cost associated with the
usage taking into account the amount of time and effort required in order to achieve impact.
It is important to note here that the Committee understands that accurately determining all
usage costs can be difficult. Applicants must engage with end users to determine the costs
and provide a strong justification to support the claims. Usage costs are the costs borne by
the end user in adopting the output, not the costs associated with developing the output.
The applicant should consider how applicable the usage is to the proposal and if it is realistic
in the given timeframes with the identified collaboration. A common mistake made by
applicants is including both usages and impacts that are not a result of the CRC activities or
require large scale application by partners that are not involved in the proposal. For
example, if the applicant proposes to develop a new product that will be utilised by
companies from a sector that are not participating in a CRC. The risk that the usage may not
occur will be increased as there is no clear commitment from relevant users of the product.
7.3
Selecting a risk rating
Applicants are asked to provide a risk rating associated with the risk that the required
Outputs and Usages are not achieved. This allows the Committee to distinguish between
the high-risk and low-risk outcomes of the proposal and to assess whether all associated
risks have been factored into the bid.
For guidance on selecting a risk rating, please refer to the Risk Rating System section of the
document.
7.4
What should be included in the timeline of key usage milestones?
The timeline of key usage milestones should include clear, factual and measurable
descriptions for key milestones associated with the delivery and progress of each usage.
Whilst it is not expected that usage will occur in every year, the Committee do expect to see
realistic and clear milestones where relevant.
Selection Round 17 (2014) – Impact Tool User Guide
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